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I have been wanting to enjoy the atmosphere and experiences of ACL since I discovered my love for live music. Growing up in San Antonio, it was easy to make a quick trip to Austin for the weekend. Unfortunately, I never brought myself to buy those precious wristbands.

It wasn’t until this year, when my bank account had finally recovered from the multiple hits it took from previous concerts, that I had my opportunity to buy a one-day wristband. It was a no-brainer for my cousin and I to buy Sunday wristbands because, duh, Chappell Roan and Tyler, the Creator were performing on the same night. Sign us up!

(Photos provided by Elliana Guardado)

The anticipation of walking from our parked car— which I highly recommend paying in advance for— to Zilker Park was a warm-up to the heat and pain our feet would endure the whole day. Once you enter, the heat and pain don’t seem to matter anymore. It’s like going to Disneyland for the first time, but with multiple stages and the smell of weed everywhere.

Our first stop was at the T-Mobile stage to catch the remaining minutes of Malcom Todd’s set. Neither my cousin nor I had heard much of his discography, but what really caught our attention was his rendition of the “iCarly” theme song. With that, he gained two loyal fans.

After some sitting and water breaks, we made our way to the Honda stage to settle in for Orville Peck. Getting there a bit early allowed us to watch the end of MisterWives. Oh girl, that woman is a ball of energy. Jumping around in her sparkly outfit with the sun directly on her was enough for me to stop complaining about my exhaustion. After she finished, the crowd started to pour out, and my cousin and I got a spot on the barricade for Orville Peck.

Orville Peck was the beginning of the ideal experience we imagined ACL would bring. Performing songs like “Dead of Night” and “Cowboys Are Frequently Secretly Fond of Each Other” had both of us swaying to his deep, raspy voice. Peck, being one of the first artists we were fans of, really made this experience special. We thought seeing him was the most exciting part—oh, do I have a story for you.

Where we were standing was near the entrance to the VIP section. Here we are, having the time of our lives listening to Peck sing his heart out. Guess who we see? None other than Jared Padalecki making his way past us to the VIP section. For those who don’t know, he is best known for his role as Dean from "Gilmore Girls" or Sam from "Supernatural." Like anyone would, I freaked out when we got confirmation that it was really him by catching a glimpse of his side profile. We had to prove that it was him and not just some really tall dude with great hair. Thinking that catching a glimpse of him was exciting, y’all, he came up and took a picture with the girl right next to us. He seemed like he was in a rush, so my cousin and I didn’t want to bother him again, but I unknowingly touched his arm. I was unaware I did this until later, when I was in disbelief that I had.

During this time, the sun had set a bit and was starting to show off its beauty. As we all know from experience, the Texas sun doesn’t let up, and we were still dying.

With a quick food break, it was already time to make our way to the American Express stage to snag a spot for Chappell Roan’s upcoming set. Even though we couldn’t see the stage, we had a view of the screens, and that is all that matters. Her stage presence was unbelievable. Roan’s breathtaking vocals performing some of her hit songs like “Pink Pony Club” and “My Kink Is Karma” made all the difference. My life is now complete thanks to being able to do the “Hot to Go” dance.

If anyone is familiar with the energy Tyler, the Creator brings to his sets, you know how this went down. Witty remarks, high energy, and some creepy facial expressions filled his entire time on stage. This was my favorite set of the day as he performed popular songs like “See You Again” and “New Magic Wand.” In his words at the end of his set, “For all you rich people, I will see you next weekend,” just confirms another reason why I envy the rich.

Since this was our first time at the festival, we had no expectations. As far as we were concerned from the numerous TikTok videos, the only thing we had to worry about was the dust and the recommendation not to wear cowboy boots. Oh, how I wish I had listened to you all about the dust and boots! My feet were blistered for days after, and three days following the festival, I caught the ACL plague. Nonetheless, I had an amazing time. I am so ready to buy my wristband for next year. This is the start of a joyous addiction.

(Photos provided by Elliana Guardado)

Inhaler’s new single “Your House” is opening the door to a brand-new era. Released ahead of their forthcoming album Open Wide, the track gives fans a sneak peek of what they can expect from the band’s latest work. And yes, for the record, I was a fan before this album dropped.

Inhaler 'Your House' album art

If you’re unfamiliar with Inhaler, allow me to introduce you to the wonderful world you’ve been missing. Inhaler is an alternative and sometimes indie rock band based in Dublin, Ireland. Formed in 2012, the group consists of lead singer Elijah Hewson, lead guitarist Josh Jenkinson, bassist Robert Keating, and drummer Ryan McMahon. A surprising detail for some fans? The band has a hint of nepotism. Gasp!

Our charismatic lead singer, Elijah Hewson, is the son of none other than Bono (yes, the Bono, lead singer of U2). While I tend to be skeptical of “nepo babies,” Hewson stands out. He’s earned his place and has managed to separate his success from his father’s legacy.

“Your House” kicks off with a head-banging riff, backed by the steady beat of the drums. Soon, Hewson’s voice joins the melody as he sings, “Right around six or something / There I was / Barefoot on the street / Where I thought I’d / Float your door.”

The song immediately conveys a sense of longing and unease. The mood is laced with anticipation and paranoia, created by Hewson’s emotive delivery and the persistent use of minor chords. It’s a track that seems to explore the perspective of someone unwilling—or unable—to let go, despite knowing they should.

The chorus furthers this narrative with lines like, “I’m going nowhere you won’t find me / Maybe I sold love / For what it’s worth on the street / Saying ‘Oh-oh love’ / There ain’t a sharp enough knife / To cut me out of your life / I’m going to your house tonight.” If it weren’t Elijah Hewson delivering these lyrics, I’d probably be terrified.

As the song progresses, the second chorus takes a darker turn. The line “I’m going to your house tonight” shifts to “Who’s going to your house tonight”—delivered in a more threatening tone, hinting at possessiveness. You all heard it too, right? Thank goodness this man is good-looking.

The bridge introduces a new sonic texture, veering into psychedelic territory. Echoing vocals, swelling guitars, and an overall hazy atmosphere evoke the feeling of a protagonist spiraling into obsession.

As the song builds toward its conclusion, a choir is added to the mix. While their inclusion feels slightly misplaced, they sound undeniably beautiful.

Overall, I loved what Inhaler has accomplished with “Your House.” The angsty desperation layered throughout the track is an exciting preview of what’s to come on Open Wide. Here’s hoping the new music comes with tour dates in Texas—not that I’d attend, because the thought of being in the same room as them terrifies me. Using Britney Broski’s reverse manifestation method, I definitely don’t want to meet them.

In early March, American heavy metal band Avenged Sevenfold announced a month long song tournament for their fans to engage in. The announcement was made on Facebook as follows:

“We hear constant arguments and opinions over which Avenged Sevenfold song is the best. With March Madness just around the corner we've decided to have an Avenged Sevenfold March Mania Song Tournament. Sign up on our forum and vote to help determine which one of our songs will be crowned the champion.”

Over the course of the month, I have participated in the tourney. At first, I could make easy decisions between songs; but, as the rounds progressed and certain songs had been eliminated to the most popular and revered, the choices have gotten much harder. For example, two of my most favored A7X songs, “Natural Born Killer” and “Bat Country”, have gone head to head. They are similar songs in form and pace. Both contain dominant guitar work and are used specifically for moshing in live performances. However, as much as I wanted “Natural Born Killer” to prevail, majority vote has allowed “Bat Country” to continue to further rounds. Currently, the song is competing against “Seize the Day”—a slow paced ballad.  

During the tourney, many people have complained to A7X administrators about the pairing of songs for the rounds. Some argue that certain songs, like ballads, are competing with other pieces that are completely different in form, like some of the bands heavier work. For example, the song “Dear God”—a love song that progresses in a slow manner with a country-esque attribute in it—was head to head with the song “Burn it down”—a much heavier song that contains faster riffs and wider ranges of loud musical composition. Others argue that the tourney has turned into a popularity contest. They say that certain songs are winning because they are being paired with underrated works from the band’s first album, “Sounding the Seventh Trumpet”, or other pieces that don’t get performed live as much. For example, a song from their first album, “To End to Rapture,” competed in the first round against one of their most widely known compositions, “Welcome to the Family.” The first song is known to be one of the best songs in the first album, though it doesn’t get much performance time. The second song is often played during tours to welcome new fans of the band. Needless to say, the most popular song continued on.

In the bands discussion forum, many fans have voiced their opinion publically. For instance, a member named Nymia said: “Disappointing how the songs were matched. There are too many songs that deserved to be in the final 8 more than some of these.” Facebook user Liam E., said “Some of these are silly, putting ridiculous popular songs against underrated songs! ‘Remissions’ (a song from Sounding the Seventh Trumpet) should've won against ‘Shepherd of Fire’ by far!”

If you or a friend is a fan of the band and want to contribute in the tournament, there are two more rounds to vote in for the championship pairing. The current round ends on March 25th at 10pm (EST) and contains popular songs, such as: “Unholy Confessions,” “Nightmare,” “A Little Piece of Heaven” and a much more. You can sign up and vote at the link below.

http://board.avengedsevenfold.com/topic/4559-read-info-rules-bracket-general-discussion/

Who is G.L.O.R.Y.?

We are The Gorgeous Ladies of Rasslin, Y'All! The only all-female theatrical wrestling league that is run entirely and performed entirely by women in Austin, TX. We are excited to crush our inaugural show in April!

No Guts (or funds), No Glory

In the spirit of DIY, we're going to unleash a gritty, powerful, in-your-face explosion of feminist energy hell-bent on subjugating the male gaze in the most comedic and merciless way imaginable.

We are working class women, students, actors, fighters, comedians, and artists who can transform trash into backdrops, used spandex into costumes, and car tires into a dang ring to throw ourselves on for your viewing entertainment.  

Unfortunately, this kind of talent doesn't materialize start-up capital from thin air.

That's where you come in.

With your contributions we can keep this movement running. It will allow us to book a venue, create props, construct a ring, implement proper audio/video, hire security, and produce merchandise in the hopes of being a self-sustaining organization in the future.

Not only will you get some really great swag as rewards for your generosity, you will also be funding an incredible art project whose brutal, beating heart holds the hopes of the marginalized.

Why is G.L.O.R.Y. important?

Many of us are self-admitted wrestling nerds and are former/current wrestlers in various organizations including other female leagues. We have seen some of the worst aspects of the sport, including but not limited to: sexism, homophobia, transphobia, racism, and rampant, unchecked male privilege.

We've also seen some of the best things: unbridled, joyful entertainment, the thrill of performance, the raw power of the slam, the energy from the crowd, and absurdly brilliant storylines.

We strive to be a safe space, free from harassment, a place where people can be their best selves in and out of the ring.

G.L.O.R.Y. is modeled after many other successful leagues that have emerged in recent years, whose numbers are only growing. We want to be pioneers on the forefront of this new chapter in wrestling history and positive role models in the community.

Risks & Challenges

We have received overwhelmingly positive feedback thus far, but in our effort to include those who have perhaps been turned off by wrestling in the past due to some of the issues listed above, we may lose some of the more traditional fans associated with wrestling. Which is inherently risky, but a risk we are willing to take.

In our mission to include all types of women in performance and logistical positions in G.L.O.R.Y., we aren't able to include self-identified males on our roster. Our ultimate goal is to be a production 100% staffed by self-identified women and non-binary folks. Which is kind of a bummer for all of the incredibly talented men who have been, and continue to be, very supportive of our cause.

Other Ways You Can Help

We understand that not all of us have extra scratch to support all the things we want to. Simply coming out to the show and seeing the triumph of G.L.O.R.Y. and telling your friends is a good way to support us.

Men: We don't hate men! Some of our most vocal supporters are men. We want to create a product that is completely run by women, which is a rare thing in this world. Please, come to the show. Enjoy it. Feminism is a very broad (no pun) ideology. Many of us hold very different beliefs on what that means, but one thing we can all agree on is: watching women pummel each other in the squared circle is super dope.

I had the great pleasure of seeing Basement headline the Mohawk in August last year. Basement is a UK-based five-piece melodic-hardcore band that has molded its sound by mixing 90′s grunge and emo to make heavy alternative music. Their first two full-length releases, “I Wish I Could Stay Here” and the infamous “Colourmeinkindness” are widely regarded in the scene, with emotional anthems such as “Covet”, “Pine”, “Yoke” and so much more. Actually, just do yourself a favor and jam both of those albums in full. You won’t regret it. Basement surprised many fans when they announced an indefinite hiatus after touring off of Colourmeinkindness. In 2014 they announced their return with announcement of a new three-song EP, “Further Sky”. The EP foreshadowed a new album and a new sound stemming from more 90′s grunge influence than any of their previous releases. Now here we are, Basement’s comeback album, “Promise Everything” is here and will be released on January 29, 2016 on Run For Cover Records. The opening track, “Brother’s Keeper” is a slapper for sure. It’s evident that this song will be a crowd pleaser when played live, with soaring crescendos and ripping guitars both distorted and clean in the middle where singer, Andrew Fischer swoons with his most improved vocal performance yet. The follow-up song “Hanging Around” is full of the sound that Colourmeinkindness offered, with a little more maturity. The guitars offer creative early 2000′s alternative-esque progressions but could still be more ambitious. The bass on the album is very meaty and gets a lot of attention throughout various breaks in songs. When the pinch harmonics start for “Aquasun”, the fourth track and one of the album’s three singles, you can feel the massive sound coming ahead. With a catchy chorus of “dive into me”, the chosen vocal harmonies, and guitar work definitely bring out the 90′s influence in the song. The track following, “Submission” is the least attractive song on the album. It feels like a filler track and it comes off as the laziest. However, the vocal delivery, carried me through the song. “Oversized” follows, which had been my personal favorite of the three singles released. The song rocks and its mostly clean and the least passionate song of the album. I wish they chose a more mature way to structure the chorus though. “Blinded Bye” is a indie rocker track and showcases a newer sound for the band. The lyrics are mediocre, but the music is catchy enough to be on rock radio and not be terrible. “For You the Moon” is a cool track because it feels like kind of like an old Incubus song. The lyrics are very heartfelt in this one and the guitars are seriously on point. They tastefully use odd effects pedals and incorporate very well within the song. “Promise Nothing” was the world’s first taste of the new album. I personally, thought it was okay, nothing terrible by any means...but it shouldn’t have been the first taste of this album. “Aquasun” should’ve been the first single because it compacts all of the band’s progression and retention in sound in one place. In short, “Promise Everything” is a great album but falls short in surpassing the grit and depth of “Colourmeinkindness”. Album Rating: 7/10

Recommended tracks: “For You the Moon”, “Aquasun” Stream the album in full: http://pdora.co/PromiseEverything Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Basementuk

-Josh Gibbs// The SoCo Collective airs Sundays at 10pm

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Make sure to check out what we’ve got to offer weekly on topperradio.com 

A recipe from Helen Herrick of Topper Radio:

"Traditional samosas are made with filo dough, but as a quick and cheap alternative, I will be making my samosas with Pillsbury crescent dough.

For the filling you will need: 2 boiled potatoes, crumble 1/4 cup boiled peas 1/4 tsp grated ginger 1 tsp red chilli pwd 1/2 tsp coriander pwd pinch cumin pwd dash of lemon juice pinch of garam masala chopped coriander leaves salt to taste

When your potatoes are fully cooked and crumbled up, you will start by heating some olive oil in a skillet. Once it's hot, brown your spices in the skillet, and add a splash of water to ensure that they won't burn. When the smell consumes your entire kitchen, you can add your potatoes and stir well. Add your peas and cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes. 

Remove from the heat and add the lemon juice and salt, to taste. Now that your stuffing is complete its time to stuff your pockets!

Simply use two triangles to create your pocket. You can lay one out, spoon on a couple heaps of filling, lay the second triangle over the top and pinch the sides of the dough together.